Sr Geotechnical Engineer

HDR; Orlando (FL); Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

HDR is seeking a Senior Geotechnical Engineer in Orlando, Florida, to lead the geotechnical aspects of a $3–5 billion infrastructure project. This role encompasses ensuring compliance with transportation standards, providing technical leadership throughout all project phases, and coordinating testing and field oversight. The ideal candidate must have at least ten years of experience in geotechnical engineering, be familiar with FDOT standards, and hold a relevant professional engineering license. Fieldwork and travel to project sites are required.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in geotechnical engineering required.
• Working knowledge of geotechnical principles and foundation systems needed.
• Familiarity with FDOT standards and testing procedures is essential.
• Ability to interpret technical data and construction documents.

Responsibilities

• Lead technical aspects of infrastructure projects in geotechnical engineering.
• Review design elements for compliance and provide feedback.
• Coordinate geotechnical testing activities and support construction efforts.
• Document field observations and ensure quality assurance.

Skills

Geotechnical engineering

Communication skills

Coordination skills

Problem-solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Civil/Geotechnical Engineering

Tools

Microsoft Office

GIS

CADD applications

GeoStudio/Ensoft

PLAXIS

Itasca FLAC

Job description

HDR is seeking a Senior Geotechnical Engineer to lead technical aspects of a $3–5 billion infrastructure project. The role ensures compliance with transportation standards while providing technical leadership across all project phases, including planning, design, and construction.

Core Responsibilities

• Geotechnical Support to Design
  • Review design submittals (plans, reports, calculations) for compliance with standards.
  • Provide comments on shop drawings and geotechnical-related design elements to support constructability.
  • Assist in reviewing scope elements and identify potential risks or gaps early in design.
  • Support evaluation of cost-saving initiatives and alternative technical concepts.
• Construction Support & Field Oversight
  • Provide field support during installation of geotechnical elements.
  • Assist CEI staff with interpretation of plans, specs, and geotechnical requirements.
  • Participate in or support pre-construction and pre-operation meetings to clarify expectations.
  • Observe field activities to identify non-conformance or potential issues.
• Testing, Evaluation & Documentation
  • Coordinate and review geotechnical testing activities.
  • Review foundation logs, installation records, and certification packages for completeness and accuracy.
  • Assist in evaluating test results and supporting recommendations for foundation performance.
• Quality Assurance & Issue Resolution
  • Support geotechnical QA efforts through field reviews and documentation checks.
  • Identify and help resolve geotechnical issues encountered during construction.
  • Assist in evaluating non-conformance issues and recommending corrective actions.
  • Provide technical input on geotechnical-related claims or disputes.
• Coordination & Program Support
  • Coordinate with geotechnical subconsultants, testing firms, and laboratories.
  • Interface with client Materials Office and project stakeholders.
  • Support consistent communication across design, construction, and materials teams.
  • Contribute to improving geotechnical processes, documentation, and field practices.

Key Outputs

• Clear, actionable geotechnical review comments.
• Evaluated test results with supporting recommendations.
• Field observations and QA documentation.
• Timely technical input that supports design development and construction progress, reducing risk.

Preferred Qualifications

• Minimum of 10 years of geotechnical engineering experience.
• Working knowledge of geotechnical principles, foundation systems, and soil behavior.
• Familiarity with FDOT standards, specifications, and testing procedures.
• Ability to interpret construction documents and technical data.
• Strong communication and coordination skills in a field environment.
• Ability to work independently while supporting a broader team structure.
• Practical problem-solving mindset focused on constructability and risk reduction.

Work Environment

• Field-based role with frequent travel across project sites.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Civil/Geotechnical Engineering or related field.
• 10 years of professional experience.
• Professional engineering license (PE, P.Eng., or equivalent) valid in the location of the position.
• Experience with Microsoft Office, GIS, and CADD applications.
• Experience with GeoStudio/Ensoft, Bentley geotechnical data management suites, and advanced numerical modeling software (e.g., PLAXIS, Itasca FLAC).
• Commitment to HDR’s employee-owned culture.

Location

Primary: Orlando, Florida (United States). Alternate: Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

EEO Statement

HDR is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer. We consider all qualified applicants, regardless of criminal histories, arrest and conviction records.